The Arts are one of the 5 core areas that are important to Boys and Girls Clubs. It is also important to me. It is where my passion is. I love to see member’s self-esteem grow with their creativity. I run a variety of programs including, Painting like the Masters. This teaches members the different styles of famous artists. Members are taught the different types of perspectives and brush strokes artists use. The basic ideas of background, middle ground and foreground are taught as well as the basic idea of aesthetics and design: line, form, function, and color. Members participate in the National Fine Arts Program which includes ten different categories and an In House Exhibit. Winning pieces are sent to the corporate headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia for national judging. Winners receive a plaque and certificate signed by our Boys and Girls Club President Roxanne Spilette. Another great program is Image Makers. This is a Photography program that teaches members about perspective and how to tell a story through pictures. Members use both digital and 33mm film. An In House Exhibit displays their work and winning pictures move onto Atlanta.

Beginning Ceramics is a very popular program! Members learn how to work with Soldate 60, basic techniques of clay building, using a kiln and glazing techniques as well as how to throw on the wheel. My favorite program is one that I designed myself. It is a singing, acting and dancing troupe known as the BG Performers. Members are taught beginning acting techniques including warm up exercises that build, self-esteem, trust and group cohesion. Members are taught basic dance skills and are involved in choreography. Members also learn the basics of singing and once an act is put together we perform for the club parents and even Senator Barbara Boxer. I also run a Torch Club Program which instills in youth a sense of competence, a sense of usefulness, a sense of belonging, and a sense of power and influence. Members are aged 11-13 and work on projects that service the club and community. Members work on a National Project that can lead to monetary awards. Last year our Torch Club in cooperation with Ramona Elementary School performed a Beach Clean Up at Hueneme Beach. It was very successful. Members are always working on seasonal arts and crafts that are displayed throughout the club and attend many field trips.